how to reheat a sub

2 min read 16-01-2025

Reheating your leftover sub doesn't have to be a soggy, sad affair. Follow these methods to achieve delicious, reheated sandwich perfection, whether you're using a microwave, oven, or skillet. Your tastebuds will thank you!

Why Reheating Matters

A perfectly reheated sub sandwich tastes almost as good as the freshly made version. But a poorly reheated one? That's a culinary crime. The goal is to melt the cheese, warm the bread without making it soggy, and heat the fillings evenly. Let's dive into the best methods to achieve this.

Method 1: The Microwave – Quick & Easy (But with Caveats)

The microwave is the fastest option, ideal for a quick lunch. However, it’s prone to making bread soggy. To mitigate this:

Wrap it up: Wrap your sub loosely in a damp paper towel. This helps trap moisture and prevents the bread from drying out excessively.
Short bursts: Reheat in 30-second intervals, checking for doneness. Overheating will lead to a rubbery texture.
Strategic placement: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Avoid placing it directly on the turntable, as this can lead to uneven heating.

Important Note: Avoid reheating subs with high-water-content fillings like tomatoes, as they'll make the bread soggy.

Method 2: The Oven – For Crispy Perfection

For the best results, especially with crusty bread, use your oven. This method produces a crispier exterior and evenly heated interior.

Wrap it (again!): Wrap the sub in foil to prevent it from drying out.
Low and slow: Reheat at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This gentler approach prevents burning and ensures even heating.
Broil (optional): For an extra crispy top, broil the sandwich for the last minute or so, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Method 3: The Skillet – The Gourmet Approach

This method offers the most control and delivers a beautifully toasted exterior.

Butter it up: Lightly butter the outside of the sandwich.
Medium heat: Cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Cheese pull potential: This method is excellent for showcasing melty cheese!

Method 4: The Air Fryer – Speedy & Delicious

The air fryer is becoming a kitchen staple, and it does a great job reheating sandwiches.

No wrapping needed: Place the sub directly in the air fryer basket.
Medium temperature: Set the temperature to 320-350°F (160-175°C). Reheat for 3-5 minutes or until heated through.
Shake halfway: Gently shake the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

Tips for Reheating Any Sub

Cut it in half: This helps distribute heat more evenly and speeds up the reheating process. It also makes for easier eating.
Consider your fillings: Some fillings, such as lettuce and tomatoes, are best added after reheating to avoid sogginess.
Don't over-reheat: Overheating can lead to a dry, tough sandwich. It's better to slightly under-reheat than over-reheat.
Experiment: Try different methods to find what works best for your preferred sub and your oven/microwave.

What About Specific Sub Types?

The best reheating method often depends on the type of sub. For example, a sub with delicate fillings might be better suited for the microwave or skillet. A heartier sub with robust ingredients might handle the oven or air fryer well.

By following these tips, you can transform a leftover sub from a sad, soggy mess into a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!